Early Literacy
Why Early Literacy Matters
The first five years of a child’s life are critical to brain development and future success in reading and learning. At Milton Public Library, we’re committed to supporting families in building early literacy skills through fun, everyday activities.
We follow the Every Child Ready to Read® model, which encourages families to:
Boost language skills through everyday conversations.
Singing slows language down, making it easier to hear the smaller sounds in words.
Reading aloud every day builds vocabulary and print awareness.
Scribbling and drawing help children develop fine motor skills and letter recognition.
Play builds imagination, language, and cognitive skills through discovery.
Early Literacy Programming
We offer a variety of early literacy programs and events designed to engage children from birth to age five and support parents and caregivers along the way:
Features Carousel
Library Resources for Parents & Caregivers
Take the challenge and read 1,000 books before your child starts school. It’s easier than you think and it makes a big difference!
Explore our collections by age, topic, language, and accessibility to help you find the perfect book for your little reader.
Access free digital tools that make early learning fun and interactive:
- TumbleBooks – Animated talking picture books for kids.
- KidSpeak – Language learning for children through fun games.
- Brainfuse HelpNow – Live tutoring and learning support.
- NoveList K-8 Plus – Find just-right books based on your child’s interests and reading level.
- Early Learning by World Book – Interactive videos, games, and stories.
- AWE Learning Tablets – Available in-branch with pre-loaded educational games.
- Library of Things – Borrow toys, literacy kits, STEM tools, and more.
Fun Literacy Activities to Do at Home
The Monthly Early Literacy Calendar offers easy, everyday ideas to help build early literacy skills through play, conversation, and connection.
Each day features a new activity that incorporates one of the five core practices: Talk, Sing, Read, Write, and Play. From singing a nursery rhyme to drawing shapes or reading together, the calendar makes it easy to turn ordinary moments into learning opportunities.
Community & Partner Resources
We work with local organizations to support your child’s development both inside and outside the library.
Free, drop-in programs for children (0–6) and their families. Learn more.
French-language programs for young children and caregivers. Learn more.
Play-based programs for Milton families. Learn more.
